Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday, 05 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, that was a tough one for Benfica, wasn’t it? They fell to a 0-1 defeat at home against Bayer 04 Leverkusen, which is a bit of a shocker considering their recent form. After losing 0-3 to Newcastle United away, you’d think they’d be fired up to get a result here, but it just wasn’t to be. On the flip side, Leverkusen managed to extend their winning run with this victory, showing they’re a force to be reckoned with. The standout moment? Definitely Patrik Schick’s goal in the 65th minute, which proved to be the decider.

Despite having more possession, Benfica couldn’t convert it into goals, and that’s been a bit of a theme lately. Their attack looked a bit toothless, and you’ve got to wonder if the pressure is getting to them. Leverkusen, on the other hand, were clinical when it mattered, and that’s what you need in the Champions League. It’s a result that’ll give them a boost going forward, while Benfica will need to regroup and find their scoring boots again.

Looking at the stats, Benfica had the lion’s share of possession with 53% compared to Leverkusen’s 47%, but it didn’t translate into much. They managed six corners to Leverkusen’s zero, which shows they were pushing for a goal, but it just didn’t happen. On the other hand, Leverkusen were more effective with their dribbling, boasting a 57% success rate compared to Benfica’s 35%. It’s clear that while Benfica had more of the ball, Leverkusen made the most of their opportunities and were more efficient in key areas.

The yellow card count was pretty even, with Benfica picking up two and Leverkusen three, showing it was a competitive match. But when you look at the overall flow of the game, it’s those successful dribbles and that one crucial goal that made all the difference for Leverkusen.

The game’s turning point came in the 65th minute when Patrik Schick found the back of the net for Leverkusen. It was a moment of brilliance that ultimately decided the match. Before that, the game was fairly even, with both teams picking up yellow cards – Dodi Lukebakio for Benfica in the 62nd minute and Ibrahim Maza for Leverkusen in the 41st.

Benfica made a triple substitution in the 69th minute, bringing on L. Barreiro, S. Dahl, and G. Sudakov, but it didn’t change their fortunes. Nicolás Otamendi also picked up a yellow card in the 78th minute, adding to the tension. Despite their efforts, Benfica couldn’t find an equaliser, and Leverkusen held on for the win.

Benfica lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Anatoliy Trubin in goal and a back four of Fredrik Aursnes, Tomás Araújo, Nicolás Otamendi, and Samuel Dahl. In midfield, Enzo Barrenechea and Richard Ríos provided the base, with Dodi Lukébakio, Leandro Barreiro, and Georgiy Sudakov supporting striker Vangelis Pavlidis. Despite the solid structure, Benfica struggled to create clear-cut chances, and their attacking players couldn’t find the breakthrough they needed.

Leverkusen opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Mark Flekken between the sticks and a back three of Jarell Quansah, Loïc Badé, and Edmond Tapsoba. The midfield was anchored by Arthur and Ibrahim Maza, with Aleix García and Alejandro Grimaldo providing width. Up top, Claudio Echeverri and Ernest Poku supported Christian Kofane. This setup allowed Leverkusen to be compact at the back while still posing a threat on the counter, which ultimately paid off with Schick’s decisive goal.

Patrik Schick takes the Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match award for his crucial goal in the 65th minute. Coming off the bench, he made an immediate impact and showed why he’s such a valuable asset for Leverkusen. His goal was the difference between the two teams, and his composure under pressure was key to securing the win.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen (H)
• Loss: 0-3 vs Newcastle United (A)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (A)
• Loss: 2-7 vs Paris Saint Germain (H)

Currently sitting in 35th place with 0 points, Benfica will face Casa Pia on November 09, 2025 at 20:30.

In 21st place with 5 points, Bayer 04 Leverkusen will take on Heidenheim on November 08, 2025 at 14:30.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.